The Killings In Mexico

New York Times 100 years ago today, February 26, 1913:
Declared to be Justified by Exigencies of War.
To the Editor of The New York Times:
    The hysterical utterances of some of our newspapers over recent events in Mexico would be amusing if the whole matter were not a profound tragedy. As a strung advocate of peace and arbitration, the loud protests over the death of a few individuals on the part of those who are consumed with a desire to fight, (or have others do so,) to slay thousands and have thousands of our countrymen slain, seem to me a curious though not unusual specimen of masculine logic.
    It would be well to consider things dispassionately. Assassination in time of peace in a country which is governed with even a semblance of justice is rightly regarded with horror. Summary execution in time of martial law or of insurrection and anarchy is entirely different and is generally considered justifiable. In recent earthquake calamities the shooting of men who were engaged merely in robbing the dead has occasioned no outcry. In time of war stern measures may be the truest mercy. Where two parties are fighting for a cause the death of one or two leaders may inspire their followers to a more earnest and tireless struggle. Where there is a condition approaching anarchy, a strife of personal factions, the removal of leaders may be the only method possible for an early restoration of order. Of the existence of such conditions the persons in power are the best judges.
    Had Madero given orders for the execution of Diaz and Reyes immediately upon their capture probably the killing of 3,000 in Mexico City, including many non-combatants, would have been spared,
        ANNIE S. PECK.
        New York, Feb. 25, 1913.